Single-site catalyzed materials facing stiff competition

Metallocene/single-site catalyzed (m/SS) polymers have seen stronger growth in the last few years, but market penetration remains small as materials made by conventional means, such as LLDPE, continue to compete effectively. According to a report released by Business Communication Company, Inc., growth rates for m/SS resins and elastomers are expected to average about 7.3% through 2007, reaching 2.1 billion lb. of demand, up from 1.47 billion lb. in 2002. While this growth rate is over twice the average U.S. GDP growth, market penetration in 2007 will still be below 10% of the aggregate total of competitive materials. Highest growth of m/SS materials is expected for different types of packaging films and in various markets such as medical, tubing and wire and cable.